A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Villach vs. Split for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Villach or Split?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Villach or Split? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Villach

Villach is a historic, nature-filled, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Villach and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Villach or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Villach, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Villach is known for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Villach and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Villach is popular for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Villach different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Split and Villach. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Villach or Split?

Split is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

Is the Food Better in Villach or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

Dining out in Split is an experience not to be missed. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Villach or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Split is a must-see party destination. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Villach or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. However, Villach is not a resort destination.

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Villach is not a resort destination.

Is Villach or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Villach or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is notable for the beach. However, Villach is not a beach destination.

Split is considered a top beach destination. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Villach is not a beach destination.

Is Villach or Split Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Villach and Split.

Villach offers a nice historic old town area. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is Villach or Split Better for Hiking?

Villach is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Villach. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Villach or Split?

Split is notable for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Villach or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Villach or Split.

Villach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Is Villach or Split Better for Couples?

Split is terrific for couples. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Split makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

Villach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Villach or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is terrific for backpackers. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Villach is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

Is Villach or Split Better for Students?

Split is notable for students. However, Villach is not popular with students.

Split is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Villach is not popular with students.

Is Villach or Split Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Split is a popular place for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Split has a few public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Villach or Split a more walkable city?

Split is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

Villach is generally not a very walkable town. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Villach Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Villach?

How long in Villach or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Villach or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Villach, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

Families should spend more time in Split than Villach. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Split, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Split than Villach. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Split that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Villach if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Split.

One day in Villach or Split?

In Villach, many people enjoy the nightlife and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Villach or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Villach. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.

Five days in Villach or Split?

Villach is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the destination of Villach. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Villach or Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nature-filled destination of Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Villach and Split, we can see that Villach is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Villach Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Villach or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Villach. When comparing the sizes of Villach and Split, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Villach or Split?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Villach or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Villach during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Villach is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Villach average around 24°C (75°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Villach. In the summer, Villach often gets less sunshine than Split. Villach gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in July than Split. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Villach or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Villach and Split. The autumn months attract visitors to Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Villach is cooler than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Villach averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Villach usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Villach gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Villach usually receives more rain than Split. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Villach or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Villach as well as Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Villach is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Villach in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Villach often gets less sunshine than Split. Villach gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets less rain in January than Split. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Villach or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Villach are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Villach is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Villach average around 13°C (56°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Villach usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Villach gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Villach usually receives more rain than Split. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Villach